Abby Holmes believes Durham Women need to ensure they play to their own strengths this weekend – as they prepare to tackle Sheffield United.
The Wildcats lost out in an entertaining clash against Crystal Palace last time out and will be looking to bounce back when the Blades visit Maiden Castle on Sunday, January 23 (12pm kick-off).
And while there was undoubtedly disappointment in the camp after last weekend’s result, Holmes believes the side need to draw a line under that result.
“We’re disappointed after Sunday, and you could probably see it in all our faces,” she admitted.
“It wasn’t our best performance, but we had loads of chances to probably win the game.
“Unlike us, we conceded three sloppy goals that probably could have been avoided – but we have to forget about that now and go on to Sheffield United this weekend.
“It’s been really intense in training this week so fingers crossed we can put in a good performance on Sunday.”
Training levels have also benefited from increased depth in the squad – which Holmes believes can only be a good thing.
“We’ve now got a strong squad,” she said.
“In previous years we were maybe a bit thin on the ground in parts, but now we’ve got competition for places.
“That’s showing in training with how competitive it is. Everyone is fighting for their place, and hopefully that will lift everyone’s performance levels.”
Durham’s next opponents claimed victory over Coventry United in their last outing, and the full-back knows they cannot be taken lightly.
“Literally every team in this division are tricky,” added Holmes.
“We’ve got to play to our strengths and fingers crossed we can come away with three points.”
Durham were roared on by a passionate home crowd last time out – and Holmes is hoping for more of the same this weekend.
“It’s unbelievable when they’re cheering you on.
“Especially when we went down on Sunday, we could hear them all.
“Let’s see you there on Sunday!”